Solar thermal and electricity systems tour
5 Randolph Rd, East York, ON M4G 3R6, Canada
43.7011766
-79.3641457
Come see how simple and fun it can be to harness the sunlight that bathes our homes each and every day.
Since 2007, I have been heating my water from the sun, cutting the amount of natural gas I use for hot water heating in half. And best of all, it has not required any changes to my family’s normal daily routine!
Since 2009, I have been participating in the micro-FIT program with a roof-mounted 3.2 kW PV solar system where I have been receiving a fixed tariff rate for all of the electricity I generate and put onto Toronto Hydro’s grid. I still have another 13 years left in the 20 year contract.
My most recent installation is a 1.5 kW net metering PV solar array which manages to turn my hydro meter backwards when I’m generating more than I use or slow the meter down when I’m using more than I can generate. Lots of fun. This setup is the “next big evolution” to solar and is increasing in leaps and bounds around the world.
My next project in a few years’ time will be to invest in an electric vehicle. I want to know what it feels like to drive a car that at least partially runs on the sun!
When you’re here, remind me to show you the two solar-powered attic fans I installed in 2010 that help keep my home cooler in the summer. Or the grey water heat-exchanger that helps to pre-heat the water going into my hot water tank.